Things To Do
in Suriname
Suriname, situated on the northeastern Atlantic coast of South America, is known for its rich diversity in ethnicities, languages, and cultures, stemming from its history of colonization and immigration. It is the smallest sovereign state in South America in terms of area and is covered largely by tropical rainforests, hosting a vast array of biodiversity and the Central Suriname Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The capital city, Paramaribo, is renowned for its well-preserved Dutch colonial architecture, blending European styles with local materials and techniques, reflecting the country's unique cultural fusion.
- "Odi sranan" - Hello
- "Fa waka" - How are you?
- "Danjanga" - Thank you
- "Suma ete" - Goodbye
- "Mi no sabi" - I don't know
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by exploring the historic city center of Paramaribo. Visit the wooden St. Peter and Paul Cathedral, a remarkable architectural gem.
Enjoy a local lunch at one of the quaint eateries, trying traditional dishes like roti. Afterward, take a walk along the waterfront and relax at Fort Zeelandia.
Experience the vibrant nightlife with live music in the city. Enjoy a drink at a popular local bar while soaking in the atmosphere.
Drive to Brownsberg Nature Park for breathtaking views of the rainforest. Hike to the lookout point to appreciate the stunning landscape.
Have a packed lunch amidst nature and enjoy birdwatching or relaxing by the waterfalls. Explore the various trails the park offers.
Settle into a lodge for the night and dine on local cuisine. Listen to the sounds of the jungle as you unwind under the stars.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich biodiversity and natural beauty, including rainforests and rivers.
- Cultural diversity with a mix of Indigenous, African, Asian, and European influences.
- Low population density, providing a sense of openness and space.
- Opportunities for ecotourism and outdoor activities.
- Natural resources, including gold and bauxite, which can drive economic growth.
- Economic challenges, including reliance on a limited number of exports.
- Political instability and governance issues can lead to uncertainty.
- Infrastructure may be underdeveloped in certain areas.
- Limited access to healthcare and educational services in remote regions.
- Vulnerability to climate change and environmental degradation.
Best Activities in Suriname
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the diverse rainforests and wildlife in Suriname through guided jungle treks.
Enjoy scenic boat tours along the Suriname River to discover the country's natural beauty and indigenous villages.
Experience the rich birdlife of Suriname by visiting its numerous birdwatching locations, such as Brownsberg Nature Park and Bigi Pan.
Take a thrilling canopy walk through the treetops of the rainforest for a unique perspective of Suriname's natural landscape.
Tours
Uncover the best of Suriname with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Suriname
Visit one of these nice places.
Brownsberg Nature Park offers stunning views of the surrounding rainforest and Brokopondo Reservoir, providing plenty of photo opportunities.
Located along the northeastern coast of Suriname, Galibi Nature Reserve is known for its picturesque beaches and sunsets, making it a great spot for photography.
This resort, situated on the Suriname River, provides excellent views of the lush greenery and wildlife, perfect for capturing stunning natural scenery.
Food in Suriname
Suriname Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular dish with Indian origins, consisting of flatbread served with a curried filling of potatoes, vegetables, and your choice of chicken, beef, or goat. Best enjoyed at 'Roopram Roti' in Paramaribo.
Must-Try!
A flavorful oven-baked casserole made with root vegetables, chicken, and citrus flavors. Try this traditional dish at 'Warung Pawiro' in Paramaribo.
A beloved Creole dish featuring a mix of salted fish, cassava, plantains, and sweet potatoes. Sample this hearty meal at 'Tori Oso' in Paramaribo.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Suriname better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore this bustling market in Paramaribo to savor a variety of street foods such as bara (fried dough with spicy fillings), bami (noodle stir-fry), and saoto soup (spicy Javanese soup).
This lively market is a treasure trove of Surinamese street food delights including moksi alesi (mixed rice with meats), sate (grilled skewered meats), and pastei (savory pastries).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Surinamese culture, it is important to show respect for elders by using titles like 'uncle' or 'auntie'.
Greetings are important in Suriname, and a firm handshake is a common way to greet someone.
It is respectful to refer to people using their titles, such as 'meneer' (Mr.) or 'mevrouw' (Mrs.), when addressing them.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Suriname with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Suriname
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Suriname. Most restaurants and hotels include a service charge in the bill, so tipping is not expected. However, if you receive exceptional service, a small tip may be appreciated.
In Suriname, cash is widely used for transactions, and credit cards are not always accepted, especially in smaller establishments. It is advisable to carry local currency for day-to-day expenses, but some larger businesses may accept major credit cards.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Suriname.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Suriname with less rainfall, ideal for outdoor activities and wildlife spotting.
Expect heavy rainfall and lush green landscapes, great for birdwatching and river trips, but some areas may be inaccessible due to flooding.
Suriname at Night
Hiking in Suriname
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A prominent mountain in the Central Suriname Nature Reserve, Voltzberg offers stunning views and challenging hiking trails through lush rainforest and unique rock formations.
Located in the southern region of Suriname, Raleighvallen is known for its diverse ecosystems, waterfalls, and the opportunity for guided hikes through pristine nature.
A beautiful waterfall in the rainforest, reaching Wititi Falls involves a hike that rewards visitors with breathtaking natural scenery and the sounds of wildlife.
Situated on a plateau overlooking the Brokopondo Reservoir, Brownsberg offers various trails leading through the forest, where hikers can see a range of wildlife and plant species.
A lesser-known hiking spot that features stunning views of the surrounding area and an opportunity to experience the rich biodiversity of Suriname's forests.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Suriname through these rare and unique activities.
Airports
How to reach Suriname by plane.
The main international airport serving Suriname, located approximately 45 kilometers from Paramaribo.
Located in Guyana, this airport is about 200 kilometers from Suriname and serves as a hub for Caribbean and South American flights.
Also referred to as Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport, it is the largest airport in Suriname, named after a nearby village.
Located on the island of Curaçao, approximately 800 kilometers north of Suriname, this airport connects to various international destinations.
While not near in physical proximity, this major European airport is a key international connection point for flights to and from Suriname.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Descendants of indentured laborers from India, primarily from the Hindi-speaking regions.
A mixed ethnic group, primarily descendants of African slaves and European colonizers.
Descendants of indentured laborers brought from Java, Indonesia, in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Indigenous peoples of Suriname, belonging to various ethnic groups, including the Akuriyo, Arawak, and others.
Immigrants and their descendants from China, contributing to commerce and trade in Suriname.
Descendants of migrants from Portugal and their offspring, historically involved in agriculture and trade.
The original colonizers of Suriname, still present in small numbers, contributing to administrative and business sectors.
The Soul of Suriname
Discover the essence of Suriname through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Suriname, with a rich history and a large following. The country has its own professional league and many passionate fans.
Cricket enjoys popularity in Suriname, particularly among the Indo-Surinamese community. There are local clubs and regular matches held throughout the year.
Basketball is widely played in Suriname, with various local leagues and school competitions fostering interest and talent among the youth.
Volleyball is popular, especially among women, with both recreational and competitive teams participating in local and regional tournaments.
Athletics, including track and field, is promoted through schools and sports clubs, contributing to the development of young athletes.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Surinamese cuisine prominently features meats, many eateries offer vegetarian versions of traditional dishes, and vegan-friendly options are becoming more available especially in Paramaribo's urban dining scene.
Rice and cassava are dietary staples in Suriname, making many dishes naturally gluten-free. However, it's advisable for individuals with gluten intolerance to communicate their dietary needs clearly when dining out.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Suriname.